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British Airways and Kenya Airways both fly to Nairobi-Kenyatta from London-Heathrow. Heathrow is the only London airport offering direct flights to Kenya.

Terminal Information – Departing

This is only a guideline. Always check your boarding pass for up-to-date terminal information.

Kenya Airways fly from Terminal 4 while British Airways depart for Kenya from Terminal 3. Terminal 4 is an extra stop on the tube or Heathrow Express, and not all trains call at the stop. Check your boarding card and the train route carefully before setting out for the airport. Both terminals are very stylish, offering a wide range of high-end and high-street shops and eateries. Kenya is outwith the EU so you can enjoy duty free shopping in designer stores like Etro, Burberry and Cartier. If you're feeling peckish there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Whether you feel like a French delicacy, a Lebanese snack, or an Italian meal, both terminals have something to suit all tastes and pockets. There are executive lounges in both terminals too, and access prices are lower if you pre-book.

Terminal Information – Arriving

There's a taxi rank outside the arrivals hall where you can hail a licensed cab. Expect to pay about 1500* KES (just under £10) for the trip into the city centre. Taxis are metered, so if you're going anywhere else the price will differ accordingly. If you prefer to take public transport, bus 34 runs between the airport and The Ambassador Hotel in downtown Nairobi. This costs 50* KES (about 45p). Traffic in Nairobi is notoriously congested, so if you're arriving at rush hour (7-9am, 4.30-6.30pm) you can expect a long journey into town. If you want to brave it yourself, you can hire a car at Nairobi Airport.

Practical Information

Whatever your reason for visiting, you will need a visa to enter Kenya. You can arrange it beforehand or pick one up on arrival at the airport. You can apply for single entry and transit visas online, but other visas must be arranged through the Kenyan embassy. Your passport must be valid for six months after you enter Kenya, even if you're only visiting for a short break, and you need two blank pages.

What to expect in Nairobi

Nairobi is three hours ahead of London and the currency is the Kenyan shilling. The best time to visit is June to September, as these months are the driest. The lack of rain makes it easier to get around: essential if you're planning a safari holiday. Weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures around 22-25°C. This time of year is also when the famous wildebeest migration takes place: an absolute must-see!